KR20090039810A - Active device having variable energy/optical properties - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an active device (100) having variable energy/optical properties, comprising an active system (1, 12) between a protective substrate (2) and a protective cover (3), which is chosen from an essentially inorganic electrochemical system, an optical-valve system, a liquid-crystal system, a gasochromic system, a thermochromic system, means for sealing against liquid water and/or water vapour, a surround (50) made of at least one metal-based part (5a, 5b) on the perimeter of the device, the surround being assembled to the cover and to the substrate by assembly means (61' to 64') forming at least part of the water-vapour sealing means.

Description

ACTIVE DEVICE HAVING VARIABLE ENERGY / OPTICAL PROPERTIES}

The present invention relates to an active device having variable energy / light transmission properties including an active system between the protective substrate and the protective cover.

The first types of active systems according to the invention are essentially inorganic electrochemical systems, in particular essentially inorganic (mineral) electrochromic panes, for example, in particular, in patent EP-867 752, EP- As described in 831 360, PCT / FR00 / 00675, PCT / FR99 / 01653, it is used to adjust light and heat transmission, and the electrolyte is essentially in the form of a mineral layer, followed by all The layers are essentially mineral. This type of electrochromic system is generally referred to by the term "all-solid" electrochrome. In general, these essentially inorganic electrochromic systems comprise two layers of electrochromic material separated by an electrolyte layer and framed by two electrically conductive layers forming electrodes.

There are also systems called "light valves": these are polymer-based films on which microdroplets containing particles are able to move in the desired direction under the action of an electric field. Examples thereof are described in patent WO 93/09460.

Liquid crystal systems, which also have a mode of operation similar to the previous ones, also exist: they use a polymer film located between two conductive layers, in which liquid crystal droplets are dispersed, in particular having a positive dielectric ratio It has a nematic property with anisotropy. When energy is applied to the film, the liquid crystal is oriented in the desired axial direction, thus allowing viewing. When energy is removed, the film becomes hazy. Examples thereof are described in patent EP-238 164, US-4 435 047, US-4 806 922, US-4 732 456. Cholesteric liquid crystal polymers such as those described in patent WO92 / 19695 may be mentioned.

A second type of active system in which the present invention is concerned relates to layers or layer stacks whose properties change without the power supply under the influence of heat or light: thermochromic layers-in particular those of vanadium oxide principal components-and thermotropic Layers or mineral or organic photochromic layers can be mentioned-especially those based on polymers, which can be in the form of polymer films or even gel films. This is especially the case for thermotropic gels, as described, for example, in patents EP 639 450, US Pat. No. 5,615,040, WO 94/20294 and EP 878 296.

A fourth type of active system relates in particular to a gas coloring system whose properties are modified by the passage of a gas comprising hydrogen, which is a thin layer of WO ₃ overlaid with a platinum layer deposited on the surface of the gas element. Is made with.

All of these systems mentioned above have in fact that they can be, to some extent, common to some degree, susceptible to mechanical, chemical attack, or contact with water, or interactions with the outside world.

This is why these active systems must lie in common against at least one protective support substrate in order to maintain their satisfactory action. They are usually located between the protective substrate and the protective cover, which are made of glass, for example, and bonded together using a thermoplastic type assembled polymer sheet {sheet (s)} (s).

Plastic leakproofing means are often provided for the purpose of isolating the active system from the outside as much as possible.

Such leak-proofing means are described in French patent 2 815 374, which relates to laminated window panes with a plastic seals system formed of a number of elements to simultaneously perform both isolation from gas, liquid and dust. Thus, a polyisobutylene main component seal (barrier to gas), called a butyl seal, is placed between the substrate and the cover, and a polysulfide or polyurethane seal (liquid) Barrier) is bonded to the butyl seal.

However, these seals have some disadvantages. In fact, these seals must meet at least three requirements that do not need to be compatible:

As we have seen, they must isolate the active system from the outside. They should therefore act as a barrier as effectively as possible, even for long periods of time, especially for water or any other solvents, and for vapor and / or liquid forms, they must be subjected to extreme environmental conditions, in particular high humidity and / or high You must have the ability to withstand warmth.

Their use and the way they are installed need not be the simplest from an industry standpoint.

Finally, their mechanical properties may be far short of what may be required.

It is an object of the present invention, in particular, to be able to improve and / or better control their reproducibility, in particular by means of means that can simplify them, but not in particular the present manner of manufacturing these window-type devices. By finding a means for controlling the durability of such devices mentioned above with them, it is to overcome these disadvantages.

For this purpose, the present invention aims at an active device having variable energy / light transmission properties, including:

An active system between the protective substrate and the protective cover, which is essentially selected from inorganic electrochromic systems, light valve systems, liquid crystal systems, gasochromic systems, and thermochromic systems;

-Liquid water and / or vapor leak ring means,

A boundary formed from at least one metal principal component on the periphery of the device, the boundary being at least partially by the edge of the substrate and / or by means of assembly which forms at least a portion of the vapor leak prevention means; Soreround assembled by the edge of the cover.

Metal principal component boundaries are designed and assembled for the purpose of isolation from minor attacks from gas, liquid, or dust. It can also provide mechanical reinforcement, for example, by forming a frame for mounting as a mounting pane (for the vehicle pane in the case of a vehicle pane) or as a double pane for a building.

The boundary extends (at least principally) along the periphery of the substrate and the cover. The boundary is not arranged between the substrate and the cover, nor is it maintained by the inner face of the substrate. Thus the mounting of the boundary is simplified and can occur even after possible assembly of the cover and the substrate. The boundary can also be used to protect and / or facilitate the electrical connections.

The boundary is suitable for the assembly of a substrate with any type of cover, either by covering with cast resin or by using some other peripheral means, especially for lamination. The boundary is also suitable when the substrate and the cover are simply spaced apart, for example by a spacer or a glass or metal frame. The boundary itself may serve to maintain the distance between the substrate and the cover alone.

The active device according to the invention is protected by a boundary, the means of assembly of which are robust, compact and stable and easy to handle without any risk of breakage of the substrate or cover.

Advantageously, the boundary and the assembly means can form at least principally, preferably essentially, leak-proof means for liquid water and water vapor.

In particular, if the finished device (manufacturing of active systems, spacing or assembly of covers and substrates, assembling of the borders) is manufactured on the same site continuously or at close intervals, once assembled, the borders provide sufficient protection for protection. As a hold is obtained, it is not necessary to provide leakproof means, for other leakproof means, in particular water vapor.

In particular, in the case of laminated glazings, the provision of peripheral grooves (for example by shrinkage of spacers) or the grooves with barriers against liquid water such as butyl seals and / or polyurethane seals; Likewise, it is not necessary to locate the vapor barrier.

However, if the boundary is not assembled at the place of manufacture of the system, or if this assembly is delayed (e.g. storage of the system), it is possible to provide additional temporary or permanent leakage protection between the substrate and the cover. This serves to store and / or transport the active device.

In addition, the boundary and the assembly means may form a second level of protection if the means for preventing leakage to water vapor and / or liquid water between the substrate and the cover is not sufficiently effective or superior.

The boundary according to the invention is suitable for any type of device of any geometry. The substrate and / or cover may have any shape (rectangular, rounded shape, etc.). The device can in particular have any size with an area exceeding 1 m ² .

The boundary cannot disturb the energy / light transmitting properties of the active system.

The boundary may be monolithic or may in particular consist of a plurality of parts with corner parts, the corner parts being joined together by connecting means preferably along the thickness of the device rather than surrounding the device. do.

The boundary can be a fully metal, self-supported element to which the usual assembly means is added.

Alternatively, the assembly means associated with the boundary comprises a single element comprising a membrane made of polyisobutylene, or a bulk of a material mainly composed of ethylene vinylacetate or polyamide. And the membrane is covered with a film formed of metal and synthetic material (s) on the outer surface.

The boundary may be hollow, filled, bent or flat and may or may not match the contour of the device, in particular the edge of the substrate. The boundary may preferably have a part, called a side part, which surrounds the perimeter and is pressed against the edge of the substrate by its inner face and still held by the assembly means.

To surround the entire perimeter, the free ends of the boundary may overlap in pairs, or they may have a matched form that is adapted to cooperate with each other to perform their assembly with a pedestal. The ends may also be spaced apart by the glass spacers.

The boundary may be thin. The boundary may be made of at least one metal foil of aluminum, preferably having a minimum thickness of about 200 μm, or of stainless steel, preferably having a minimum thickness of about 500 μm.

The boundary can be thicker, in particular for fixing, on rails, for example mounted on a wall.

The boundary may be in the form of a substantially flat profiled section about 1 mm thick with a substantially parallelogram cross section. This profile advantageously has low mechanical inertia, i.e. has a small winding radius of, for example, 10 cm and can be easily bent.

The boundary can be formed (by casting, molding, injection, etc.) and folded back on the cover and the substrate by a bending system. Thus, during the method, corner edge formation can be performed by bending, for example, using a machine well known to those skilled in the art of material processing.

The boundary is hard enough to perform the function of mechanically holding the substrate and the cover. In this configuration, the stiffness is defined by the nature of the constituent material and its linear buckling strength must be at least 400 N / m.

The metal boundary can be positioned like a ribbon on the edges and can ensure mechanical assembly of the device thanks to assembly means to ensure complete adhesion to the cover and the substrate.

The metal boundary itself can be covered with corrosion protection means, for example polysulfide or polyimide, in particular for outdoor use.

In the case of a gas coloring system, the boundary forms a closed system with gas flow lines (perforated for the lines).

The boundary may be assembled at least in part by the edge of the substrate and / or the cover and / or by the boundaries of the main outer faces of the cover and / or the substrate.

In an advantageous embodiment, the boundary is assembled at least in part by the edge of the substrate and / or by the edge of the cover selected in planar form.

Naturally, in this embodiment, the substrate and / or cover is thick enough to hold the boundary. For example, the substrate and / or cover may have a thickness between 3 mm and 10 mm, preferably at least 4 mm, more preferably between 4 and 6 mm.

For simple forms to be produced, the boundary can have a rectangular cross section (keeping the boundary with the edges of the substrate and the cover) or L cross section (keeping the boundary with the edges of the substrate and the boundaries of the cover).

The boundary can thus be assembled at least in part by the boundaries of the main outer faces of the cover and / or of the substrate.

Assembly is particularly advantageous in the case of thin covers and / or substrates, for example having a thickness substantially close to 3 mm, or even lower, for example between 0.4 and 1.8 mm.

For example, in order for a simple form to be produced, the boundary may have a U cross section.

The assembly means may be at least partially selected from one or the following means:

Steam heat fusion polymers optionally selected from at least one of a family of polymers of ethylene vinylacetate, polyisobutylene, polyamide, covered with a material that is leakproof for liquid water such as polysulfide, polyurethane or silicone A substance mainly comprising a leak-proof material for (s);

At least one metal weld, or solder, for ultrasonic welding, if necessary;

-Adhesive to prevent leakage in cement type vapor and liquid water such as heat fused polyurethane.

The heat fusion polymers mentioned above may also be in the form of copolymers, branched polymers. These three heat fusion polymer families provide high intrinsic leaktness, especially high impermeability to water in the form of steam. Since they are heat fused, they are also particularly easy to process at minimal cost: they can be easily injected in liquid or semi-liquid form at the desired locations using known industrial means. These polymers preferably form between 40 and 98% by weight of the material forming the connecting seal. Additives may be added here, in particular having three different functions.

On the other hand, at least one crosslinking agent, for example in the form of isocyanates and / or epoxy, may be added. On the other hand, a number of mineral weights, preferably in powder form and are for example aluminum or magnesium oxide, silica sand, quartz, diatomaceous earth, thermal silica or non-chemical silica, called pyrogenation silica. (fillers) may be added. They may also be formed of other mineral powders such as talc, mica, kaolinite, glass microspheres, or calcium carbonate, or mineral fibers.

Finally, one or more resins, called "tacky" or "sticky" resins, are added to make the seal have the function of improving the adhesion of the seal to the contacting material. It has a very low molecular weight, in particular not exceeding 10,000, in particular less than 5,000 or between 500 and 2,000 and preferably having a softening point between 50 and 130 degrees Celsius, in particular between 90 and 100 degrees Celsius. It consists of. One example is saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon resins.

Not only is it important to select polymers that are inherently leakproof, but also to prevent any delamination of the seal, to prevent the formation of diffusion paths in the seal / material that will be the leakproof interface. It is also important to select polymers that adhere very well to the materials they come into contact with.

Instead of or in addition to the use of such a bonding agent, the distribution of molecular weights present in the heat fusionable polymer can also be adjusted, especially in the case of polyisobutylenes: mixing a plurality of molecular weights is excellent. Helping to obtain high temperature creep resistance (for high molecular weights) and also having good adhesion to the material to be leakproof and good tack (for low molecular weights).

In total, these heat fusion polymer assembly means advantageously have the following characteristics:

Water vapor permeability lower than or equal to 5 g / m ² / 24h, in particular lower than or equal to 1 g / m ² / 24h, according to standard ASTM E 9663 T: this means that they are particularly impermeable to water,

Softening points between 70 and 180 degrees Celsius, in particular between 90 and 100 degrees Celsius or between 145 and 170 degrees Celsius: thus enabling them to be liquefied to install / form at industrially acceptable temperatures,

Viscosity between 0.8 and 8 Pa · s, measured at 190 degrees Celsius.

Advantageously, if this proves to be necessary, the previously described seal can be associated with another “secondary” seal in the sense that it assists its leak-proof function, especially in liquid water. This may also involve a second polysulfide, polyurethane or silicone seal, the seal being known in a known manner by coating the first seal, or by co-extrusion of two seals and / or Or against the first seal by co-extrusion.

In particular, in order to obtain a leak-proof condition for liquid water, more precisely, the seal can be formed covering the assembly means having leak-proof properties against water vapor in the following way:

Through injection of polyurethane (PU) or any thermoplastic elastomer (TPE),

-Through reactive injection of a PU, which is often referred to as RIM, which is often referred to as Reacitve Injection Molding,

Through thermoplastic injection of a polyvinyl chloride / TPE mixture,

Through injection and vulcanization of terpolymers of ethylene, propylene and diene EPDM.

Particular preference is given to adhesives of the heat-fusing cementable type which are based on polyurethane, which are crosslinkable with moisture in the air and which ensure good impermeability to both water vapor and liquid water. Permeability to water in vapor form is typically close to or was 2 3g / m less than or equal to ² / 24h.

The adhesive may preferably also be applied by liquid water, by ultraviolet light and perpendicular to the faces of the pane, and by a tensile load, commonly referred to as shear stress, or parallel to the weight force of the pane. Detachment due to the tensile load applied must be suppressed. Satisfactory cement should preferably withstand pulloff stress of at least 0.45 MPa.

Preferably, the adhesive may have a fast bonding property of about several seconds. Hardening of the cement can also be slow to check the electrical connections or even recreate them.

Welds are preferred, for example, inlaid epoxy type conductive cements, because of their anti-leakage properties for water vapor and gas.

The assembly means, or part thereof, may be electrical insulation, in particular having an electrical conductivity lower than 10 ⁻⁴ ohm * cm ⁻¹ .

However, in order to facilitate one or more electrical connections, in particular by means of a metal boundary, this metal boundary-preferably on the main part or the entire periphery of the cover and on the main outer boundaries-preferably the conductivity of the metal weld, the solder. Can be assembled from assembly means.

The active device requires a means of electrical connection to an external power source. These connecting means must be designed to avoid any short circuit.

Traditionally, the active system is arranged between two electrodes. The lower electrode is the electrode closest to the substrate (or even part of the conductive substrate), and the upper electrode is the electrode farthest from the substrate.

The metal boundary according to the invention advantageously serves as a first electrical connection to at least one of the electrodes.

For this purpose, the device may comprise at least one of the {cumulative or alternative} features described below for connection or connections.

For at least the first electrical connections, and preferably for each of the electrical connections, the device comprises at least one of the following means:

An internal electrical connection means, for at least the first electrical connection, in particular selected from at least one of the following electrical connection means in relation to the boundary:

At least one electrically conductive wire, for example made of metal, for example made of copper, gold, silver, aluminum, tungsten,

Optionally (self-) adhesion, in particular of foil type metal, having a thickness of between about 50 μm and 100 μm, which preferably extends along the main inner boundary of the substrate or cover for better power distribution At least one electrically conductive strip,

Electrically conductive filling material, in particular an adhesive deposited material by inkjet, optionally comprising metal (nano) particles such as silver or copper,

An electrically conductive enamel, optionally from about 10 μm to 100 μm thick, extending along the main inner boundary of the substrate or cover, preferably for better power distribution,

An electrically conductive cement, for example an epoxy cement containing silver,

At least one metal weld, optionally extending one or more of the assembly welds.

Known foils are thin strips of copper, 50 to 100 μm thick and having a width between 1 and 100 mm, preferably between 3 and 5 mm. Copper strips are coated with tin plating, which is mainly composed of tin or tin lead alloys to limit corrosion and to facilitate electrical contacts, for example by metal welds.

To simplify the connection by the metal boundary, the device protrudes on at least one boundary of the edge of the substrate or of the cover, for at least the first electrical connection and an internal connection means selected from one or the following means. Has:

Foil type conductive strip,

-Electrically conductive enamel,

-Electrically conductive cement,

-Optional transparent, electrically conductive thin layer (mono- or multi-layer),

These means are preferably connected to the metal assembly welds by the edge of the cover or the substrate,

And / or one projecting portion of the electrodes, in particular under the metal assembly weld of the cover or of the edge of the substrate.

The other electrode added on the substrate may, on the contrary, be non-projected, not limited to the main inner surface of the substrate.

According to one feature, one of the electrodes may comprise two protruding portions, on two boundaries of the substrate or on the edge of the cover, optionally on the borders facing each other, one of the protruding portions It is electrically insulated from other protruding parts (by any mechanical or chemical means or laser treatment) and serves as an electrical connection to other electrodes.

The metal boundary may be in the form of at least two parts which serve as separate electrical connections, which parts are connected and electrically insulated by at least one of the following connecting means:

Optionally a heat fused polymer selected from at least one of polymer groups of ethylene vinyl acetate, polyisobutylene, polyamide, covered with a material having anti-leakage properties for liquid water such as polysulfide or polyurethane or silicone Substance (s) based on

-Adhesives that have leak-tight properties against water vapor and liquid water of cement type such as heat fused cement such as polyurethane.

The same means as the non-conductive assembling means is preferably selected.

The boundary may be a single metal part, preferably the second electrical connection is provided through a through hole, preferably arranged in a dielectric selected cover, the hole being filled with metal solder and / or another conductive material (such as in form). The hole may have a size of about 5 mm.

In addition, covering metal pellets may be soldered around the hole.

The second electrical connection (and / or first electrical connection) is alternatively provided by an electrical connection element projecting out of the device and between the substrate or copper between the boundaries of the metal principal component, which element is preferably one of the following means. Or these means:

An electrically conductive layer (mono or multilayer), preferably a thin, eg electrically conductive, enamel or optionally electrically insulated when the assembly means is (relatively) conductive and / or the boundary is made from a single metal part Substances mentioned for these,

Or an electrically conductive strip of the foil type, wherein the assembly means are (relatively) conductive and / or optionally electrically insulated when the boundary is made of a single metal part.

As previously mentioned, the cover may be spaced apart or sealed to the substrate by means called peripheral means surrounding the layer, or by means, called covering means, on the active system, or the substrate and cover may be It can be kept away by the boundary. The space can be filled with inert or active (eg hydrogen) gas for inorganic electrochemical systems.

The device can thus form laminated glazing. Laminated panes commonly consist of two rigid substrates between a sheet of thermoplastic type polymer or a suspension of sheets. The invention also includes laminated panes called "asymmetric" panes that use a single rigid protective substrate of the glass type connected with multiple protective polymer sheets.

The present invention also encompasses laminated glazing having at least one laminated spacer, the main component of which is a single-sided or double-sided adhesive polymer of elastomeric type (ie, the laminate is generally under pressure to soften the thermoplastic spacers and make them adhesive. It does not require lamination in the conventional sense of the term, applying heating.

In this configuration, the ceiling means can be a laminated spacer, in particular a sheet of thermoplastic of polyurethane (PU), polyinylbutyral (PVB), or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA).

The laminated spacer serves to avoid bending of the cover, especially for large devices, for example for devices with an area larger than 0.5 m ² .

The substrate and cover can be assembled into a stack insert, preferably having substantially the same size.

The spacer optionally includes a network of electrically conductive wires enclosed on its surface, called internal, facing the electrode, and / or an electrically conductive layer or electroconductive strips on the inner surface.

And in this latter concept, it may comprise one of the following electrical connection means connected with one or the other of the electrodes:

U, preferably of the foil type, fixed to at least one boundary of the laminated spacer (preferably by softening of the thermoplastic material) and in contact with the inner wall of the metal boundary (preferably by welding). In the form of electrically conductive strips,

-Preferably of the foil type, the first end being connected (preferably welded) to the electrode and the second end being in contact with a through hole filled with a metal material of the dielectric cover, between these ends, one part being cut An U-shaped electrically conductive strip penetrating the spacer.

Active systems with variable energy / light transmission properties can have a variety of concepts:

The system is supported only by the substrate, or

Or one of the electrodes, called the lower electrode, is connected to the substrate, in particular deposited on the substrate, and the other of the electrodes (mono layer or multilayer), called the upper electrode, is at least partially connected to the cover, In particular it is deposited on the cover.

The connection methods mentioned above are suitable regardless of the electrode configuration.

In a first configuration, the lower electrode is an electrically conductive layer, which is wider than the active layer and extends for example on one boundary of the substrate. The upper electrode is an electrically conductive layer extending on the substrate, for example extending on opposite boundaries. The connections take place on the inner face of the substrate and / or on its edges (such as protruding electrodes).

In a second configuration, the top electrode is not added on the substrate and is electrically connected by:

On the substrate, by the side (for example by internal wires and / or cements, foils, etc.),

And / or of the conductive wires encrusted by the top, for example by a perforated cover, or by electroconductive assembly means and / or on the surface of the laminated spacer forming said covering means. By the network.

The device need not be symmetrical. Thus, different electrical connection methods can be provided for the two electrodes, even asymmetric assembly methods are provided.

The electrodes may be electrically conductive layers advantageously selected from the following materials: metal oxides:

Doped tin oxides, in particular tin oxides doped with fluoro (SnO ₂ : F) or antimony (SnO ₂ : Sb) (precursors available for deposition by CVD are of the hydrofluoric acid or fluorinated acetic acid type). Organometallic or tin halogen compounds associated with fluorinated precursors.)

Doped zinc oxide, in particular aluminum (ZnO: Al) (usable precursors, in the case of deposition by CVD, can be organometallic or zinc and aluminum halogen compounds) or gallium to (ZnO: Ga) Doped zinc oxide,

Or even doped indium oxide, in particular tin (ITO) doped indium oxide (the precursors available may be organometallic or tin and indium halogen compounds in the case of deposition by CVD), or indium oxide doped with zinc (IZO).

In general, any type of transparent electrically conductive layer may be used, for example layers called TCO (Transparent Conductive Oxide) having a thickness between 20 and 1000 nm.

Metallic thin layers may also be used, for example Ag, Al, Pd, Cu, Pd, Pt In, Mo, Au, TCC (Transparent Conductive Coating) having a thickness of usually between 2 and 50 nm. The electrodes need not be continuous.

The electrodes can be deposited on a flexible substrate, such as polyethylene terephtalate (PET), which is positioned between two sheets of polyinylbutyral (PVB) type thermoplastic polymer for assembling two rigid protective elements of the glass type.

The substrate or cover may be of any type (mineral, in particular glass, or organic, in particular plastic) as long as they do not allow the dust, liquid and gases to leak sufficiently.

They may preferably be hard or semi-rigid. In the context of the present invention, "hard or semi-hard" means in particular those elements which can be based primarily on glass or polymer (s) of polyethylene terephthalate PET, polymethylmethacrylate PMMA or polycarbonate PC type.

The substrate and / or protective cover may in particular be sheets of glass, for example soda lime glass, which are flat, convex and / or reinforced and optionally connected to polymer sheets (PET, etc.). have. The protective cover may have a size that is smaller, larger or the same as the substrate.

The cover and / or substrate may be transparent, semi-opaque, opaque, depending on the emission configuration.

The cover and boundary may have roughnessess or auxiliary texturings in the assembly area to prevent penetration of water. It preferably comprises the major boundaries of the cover or of the substrate.

In particular in the case of assembly by edge, the substrate may have a soft edge for better assembly.

The device may also include any known functionalization (s) in the glazing art. Among the functionalization (s), hydrophobic / oleophilic layers, hydrophilic / lipophilic layers, photocatalytic dust removal layers, thermal radiation (solar control) or ultraviolet radiation {low-emissive} reflective stacks, anti-glare, mirrors Mention may be made of reflective layers for effects.

An active device (alternative or cumulative selection) according to the invention can be used for a building and optionally mounted with double glazing to form a facade, (french) window.

The active device according to the invention can be used for a transport vehicle, such as as a rear window, side window or part of a vehicle roof, rear-view window, windshield or windshield, or for other land, sea and flight vehicles. It can be used especially in windows or cockpits.

The active device according to the invention can be used for bus stop walls or for urban furniture such as display cases, jewelry displays, shop windows, greenhouses.

The active device according to the invention is for interior decoration, in particular for shelf elements, mirrors, furniture facades, aquarium walls, paving blocks, for wall, floor or ceiling linings. Can be used.

The active device according to the invention is optionally positioned facing an intermittently, temporarily masked element, either in front of the lighting fixture or in a particularly off position to adjust the brightness.

The active device according to the invention can be an optical element such as a camera lens and can be used as a front face on a display screen of a device such as a computer or television or lighting fixture or as an element located on or in front of it.

The invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description of non-limiting exemplary embodiments and the following figures 1 to 10, wherein the figures show variable energy / light in various embodiments of the invention. A partial view of an active device having a transmissive property is shown.

For purposes of clarity, the elements of the figures are not drawn to scale.

1a to 1d show a cross-sectional side view and a schematic view from below of an active device 100 in a first embodiment of the invention.

2 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 200 in a second embodiment of the invention.

3 shows schematic cross-sections of an active device in a third embodiment of the invention.

4 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 400 in a fourth embodiment of the invention.

5 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 500 in a fifth embodiment of the invention.

6 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 600 in a sixth embodiment of the invention.

7 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 700 in a seventh embodiment of the invention.

8A and 8B show schematic cross-sectional and top views of an active device 800 in an eighth embodiment of the invention.

9 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 900 in a ninth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 1000 having an essentially organic or hybrid electrochromic system in a tenth embodiment of the invention.

1a to 1d show a cross-sectional side view and a bottom view of the active device 100 in a first embodiment of the invention.

Device 100 is, for example, an inorganic electrochromic device that includes:

ITO / ZnO: Al / with thicknesses of 15 to 20 nm for ITO, 60 to 80 nm for ZnO: Al, 3 to 15 nm for silver, 60 to 80 nm for ZnO: Al, and 15 to 20 nm for ITO A lower electrode 11 comprising a stack of layers of Ag / ZnO: Al / ITO type, or a lower electrode mainly composed of high temperature deposited (350 ° C.), indium tin oxide (ITO) having a thickness of 500 nm,

Active stack 12 formed from:

An anode of 40 to 100 nm indium oxide (hydrate) or 40 to 400 nm nickel oxide hydrate, with or without alloying with other metals such as cobalt, rhenium, rhodium A first layer of electrochromic material,

A first electrolyte layer of silicon nitride, preferably made from tungsten oxide having a thickness of 100 nm, or optionally alloyed with aluminum, boron, boron nitride, aluminum nitride,

A second electrolyte layer of -100 nm thick tantalum oxide hydrate or silicon dioxide hydrate or zirconium oxide hydrate, the latter two layers forming a layer having an electrolyte function,

A second layer of cathode electrochromic material mainly composed of -370 nm thick tungsten oxide WO ₃ ,

An upper electrode 13 mainly composed of ITO or SnO ₂ : F, for example, 100 to 300 nm thick.

The glass sheet 2 is about 2 to 10 mm thick, optionally very bright (T _L ), possibly with a surface of about 1 m ² , and has major outer 22 and inner 23 boundaries. Have Edge 21 is preferably smooth.

The device 100 further comprises a protective cover 3 of the active system 12, which has a leakproof property against dust, air, liquid water and water vapor. This cover 3 is preferably a glass sheet comprising main outer 32 and inner 33 boundaries and edge 31, the cover can be thin or thick, for example between 0.5 mm and 10 mm, In particular, it may have a thickness of about 1 mm.

The sheets 2 and 3 are optionally heat tempered or chemically cured and convex.

The protective cover 3 has, for example, the same shape as the substrate 2, for example a rectangular shape.

The device 710 is laminated using the laminated spacers 43, for example in the form of thermoplastic sheets of the type PU, PVB, or EVA having a thickness of about 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm, for example.

The device 100 is further provided with a metal boundary 50 on the periphery of the device 100 and assembled to obtain improved leak resistance and better mechanical strength for air, dust, liquid water, water vapor.

This boundary 50 is made, for example, of two parts 5a and 5b each forming an L shape in the lateral cross section. Each portion 5a and 5b includes:

Side portions 51, 53 which are pressed against one boundary or boundaries of the edge 21 of the substrate 2,

Covering portions 52, 54 that are 90 ° with the side portions 51, 53, are planar, and are assembled to the substrate 3 by one or main outer boundaries 32 of the cover 3.

For clarity, the two parts 5a, 5b are not completely shown in FIG. 1a.

As shown in FIG. 1B, these side portions 51, 53 may form two “L” s in a planar cross section, or alternatively two “Us”, not shown.

The side portions 51, 53 may be pressed against the periphery by bending. The covering parts 52, 54 can also be folded back on the cover 3 by bending.

To surround the entire boundary, the free ends of the two parts of the perimeter can overlap in pairs (as shown in FIG. 1C). This configuration is preferred if the parts are made from metal sheets of aluminum, for example about 500 μm thick.

To surround the entire boundary, the free ends of the two parts of the periphery may alternatively have auxiliary forms adapted to cooperate with each other to produce their assembly with pedestals, and may also overlap in pairs (alternatively) Is shown in FIG. 1D). This configuration is preferred when the parts are thicker and have a thickness of about 1 mm, for example to facilitate their fixation and / or not to stiffen the device 100.

The perimeter can be protected from corrosion, for example by a plastic such as polysulfide 620 or polyimide.

In order to deliver the penetration of water, the inner surfaces of the covering parts 52, 54 and the main outer boundaries 32 of the cover 3 can have auxiliary texturings in the assembly areas.

Lateral inner walls and covering portions 51 to 54 are assembled at the edge 31 of the cover and mainly at the outer boundaries 33 of the cover by welds 63, 64, 63 ′, 64 ′. Ultrasonic tin-plating procedures are preferably provided on the cover and / or on the substrate to ensure wettability between the glass and the welding material. Welds 63, 64, 63 ′ and 64 ′ may be naturally connected.

Metal welds 63, 63 ′ provide electrical connections between two metal portions 50 and two electrodes 11 ′, 13 ′. The electrodes each protrude 11 ', 13' on different (facing here) boundaries of the edge 21 of the substrate. These protrusions, obtained directly by, for example, an electrode deposition method, facilitate electrical linkages with the metal welds 63, 63 '. Each part 5a, 5b thus assists in external electrical connections by any known connection means (wires 91, 92, foils, flocks, etc.).

In order to assemble the parts 5a and 5b and to connect the metal parts 5a and 5b of the periphery 50 to avoid a short circuit, water vapor and / or liquid water, preferably as shown in FIG. Electrically insulating means 610a to 610d, which have leak-proof properties for, are used.

Materials are selected based on thermally compatible polymer (s) selected from at least one of the following polymer families: ethylene, vinylacetate, polyisobutylene, electrical conductivity lower than 10 ⁻⁴ ohm ⁻¹ * cm ⁻¹ Gray polyisobutylene sold by Teroson under the trademark "Terostat-969G", for example, and the material are optional, in a material having an anti-leak property for liquid water such as polysulfide or polyurethane Covered by.

Cement type, such as heat fused polyurethanes, adhesives having leak-proof properties for water vapor and liquid water can also be selected.

As an alternative, welds 63, 63 ′ may exist only in a number of restricted areas as auxiliary seals. In this configuration, it is desirable to add silver enamel type busbars or foils on the electrodes 11 ', 13' for better power distribution.

2 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 200 in a second embodiment of the invention.

The second device 200 differs from the device 100 by the features described below.

The upper electrode 13 does not extend on the substrate. The upper electrode is connected with other conductive elements, for example a more conductive layer, and / or with a plurality of conductive strips or wires. For further details, reference may be made to patent WO-00 / 57243 for the implementation of such "multicomponent electrodes".

Thus, a network of conductive wires 93 may be applied to the upper electrode 13 (optionally with one or more other conductive layers thereon) to cover the surface of the stacked spacer 43 (in parallel, in a grid, etc.). have.

The end 94 of the network of wires 93 is preferably deposited by conducting screen printing, for example, conductive silver enamel or even silver or copper type metal (nano), which is about 10 to 100 μm thick. Conductive, an epoxy-type conductive cement containing foil or even silver with one end pre-assembled on a "busbar" type strip 130 or even a spacer of a material deposited by an inkjet filled with particles It serves to connect the upper electrode 13 to the metal weld 63 'through the area. This area 130 of square shape protrudes on one of the boundaries of the edge 21.

As another alternative, the electrode 11 'protrudes on two boundaries (facing here) of the edge 21. One of the protruding portions is insulated and then comes into contact with the network of wires 94, thus optionally replacing the busbar 130.

Naturally, measures are taken to prevent both network 93 and conductive region 130 from contacting bottom electrode 11 '.

As an alternative, the network 93 of wire is replaced by at least one conductive layer and / or one or more conductive layers added on the conductive strips.

Each portion 5a, 5b of the boundary 50 has a cross section (without covering portions) and a sufficiently thick cover is selected to maintain the boundary.

Naturally, welds 63 and 64 or 63 'and 64' can be connected.

3 shows schematic cross-sections of an active device 300 in a third embodiment of the invention.

The third device 300 is distinguished from the preceding devices in the features described below which relate mainly to the internal connection means.

The end 94 of the network of wires 93 connects the upper electrode 13 to the metal welds 64 'of the cover 3 via a U-shaped foil type strip 130' of tin-plated copper. It plays a role. This foil 130 'has:

-Against the inner boundary 23 of the substrate-against the spacer 43-(pre-fixed), for example by softening the spacer-for example by means of welds or conductive cement, in particular silver, or by epoxy or silver or copper Parts squeezed or fixed by a material deposited by an inkjet filled with metal (nano) particles such as

At the edge of the cover 31-for example by softening the spacer, (pre-) fixed to the edge of the spacer 43, for example by means of a weld or a conductive cement, in particular an epoxy comprising silver or even silver Or a part, which is pressed or fixed by a material deposited by an inkjet filled with metal (nano) particles such as copper,

-And-with respect to the outer boundary 32 of the cover 3-by a material deposited, for example, by a weld or even by an inkjet filled with metal (nano) particles such as silver or copper- part.

Naturally, measures are taken so that both network 93 and foil 130 'do not contact lower electrode 11'.

4 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 400 in a fourth embodiment of the invention.

This device 400 is distinguished from the preceding device 300 in particular in the features described below which relate primarily to internal connection means.

With respect to the power supply of the lower electrode 11, the device comprises a first U-shaped foil type strip 110 ′, which is fixed (pre-fixed) against the spacer 43-for example by softening the spacers. And-to the inner wall of the part 5a, the non-protruding electrode 11, the main inner boundary of the cover 3-for example by means of a weld, conductive cement-.

For the power supply of the upper electrode 13, the device comprises a second U-shaped foil type strip 130 ′, which passes through the spacer 42 cut for the purpose of passage, eg a spacer Is softened against the spacer 42 (preliminarily) by softening it. This foil 130 ′ is a non-protruding electrode, for example, by means of an epoxy made of a material deposited by an inkjet, including for example welds, conductive cement, in particular silver or filled with metal (nano) particles such as silver or copper. On (13), the inner wall of the portion 5a-pressed or fixed on one side, covers a through hole 311 filled with a metal material, preferably a metal weld 630 '. This hole is 1 to 10 mm wide, preferably 3 to 7 mm wide.

Since the boundary 50 only serves as the first electrical connection, it can be made from a single metal part 5a assembled by one or more welds 63, 64 over its entire periphery.

5 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 500 in a fifth embodiment of the invention.

This device 500 differs from the previous device 200 by the features described below.

The boundary 50 serves only as the first electrical connection and can be made from a single metal part 5a, for example L-shaped (here with a covering part), assembled by welds 63 in its entire periphery. have.

For the power supply of the upper electrode 13, a foil type strip 131 is used, which protrudes out of the device and is preferably metallized on the outer surface, for example on the welds 63 ( 132).

6 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 600 in a sixth embodiment of the invention.

This device 600 differs from the preceding device 500 by the features described below in connection with external electrical connection means and assembly means.

The border 50, still made of a single piece 5a, does not help electrical connections. The assembly means associated with the boundary is butyl (plastoelastic butyl, butyl) covered on an outer surface with a tear-resistant film that exhibits UV and weather resistance, having a metal and synthetic material (s) 51 'composition. Butyl rubber} to form a single element 50 'of an adhesive tape type comprising an adhesive membrane 61' composed of bulk.

For the connections of the electrodes 11 ', 13 two foil type strips 110', 130 'on butyl are used. These strips may or may not be covered with polyimide insulation, depending on the electrical conductivity of butyl.

7 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 700 in a seventh embodiment of the invention.

This device differs from the previous devices by the features described below in relation to the assembly of the cover and the substrate and the type of external electrical connection means.

The cover 3 and the substrate 2 are assembled by molten glass frits 4 having a thickness of about 100 μm.

The electrical connections are prepared after the formation of the electrodes 11, 13 as soon as possible and at the latest before the assembly of the two parts 5a, 5b of the periphery 50 before the sealing of the glass frit 42.

For this purpose, by way of example, two opposing borders of the edge of the substrate 2 are successively submerged in a bath of tin or silver to form protruding layers for the connections 66, 66 ′. .

The portions 5a, 5b are assembled and connected by insulating means having leak-proof properties for water vapor and liquid water, as already described for the device 600.

As an alternative, the foils are soldered at the boundary, prior to assembly to the substrate, which is preferably square in shape.

8A and 8B show schematic cross-sectional and plan views of an active device 800 in an eighth embodiment of the invention.

This device 800 differs from the previous device 700 by the features described below.

With respect to the power supply of the upper electrode 13, the cover 3 includes a through hole 311 facing the electrode 13. The angle between the cover and the electrodes 11, 13, in which the conductive material 65 is injected, for example an epoxy resin comprising silver, is brought into contact with a conductive area, for example a silver enamel busbar strip 130. In the spaces form a conductive column. Preferably, the pellets 312 are soldered at their boundaries to seal the holes 311.

Since the boundary 50 only serves as the first electrical connection, it can be made from a single metal part 5a assembled by one or more welds 63, 64 on the entire periphery. (See Figure 8b)

9 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 900 in a ninth embodiment of the invention.

This device 900 differs from the device 700 by the features described below.

The boundary 50 is made of two straight metal parts 5a, 5b electrically insulated by the leak-proof means mentioned above, and welds 63, 63 electrically insulated from each other by the leak-proof means mentioned above. Assembled by ').

In order to promote electrical connections between the weld and the electrodes that do not protrude on the edges, tack welds may be performed before assembly at the periphery of the inner boundaries 23 of the substrate.

As an alternative, not shown, a cover having a size smaller than that of the beveled substrate is selected.

In all the configurations shown, the connections are made on opposite boundaries of the substrate. The arrangement of the electrodes on the substrate may be different. For example, the upper electrode may be at four corners of the inner boundaries of the substrate, and the lower electrode may extend along these inner boundaries 23 between these corners. The positions of the connections are thus selected accordingly.

When the assembly means is essentially or wholly of the type of metal welding or metal solder and the boundary is essentially or wholly made of metal (with one or two connected parts, having a circular or U cross section, etc.) You can extend it further as:

Essentially organic electrochromic systems described in, for example, patents EP-253 713, EP-670 346, wherein the electrolyte is in the form of a polymer or gel and the other layers are of the mineral type,

Electrochromic systems in which all layers are polymer type, referred to as "all-polymer" electrochrom,

Hybrid polymer-mineral electrochromic systems,

-Viologenic pane, which helps to adjust the light transmission or absorption, such as those described in patents US-5 239 406 and EP-612 82.

As an organic substance, biologen {bipyridinium salt}, 5,10-dihydrophenazines, 5,10-dihydrophenazines, 1,4-phenylenediamines, benzidine benzidines, metallocenes, Prussian blue or electron-conducting polymers (polythiophene, polypyrrole, polyaniline, etc.) or inorganic Metallopolymers comprising electrochromic materials may be mentioned, and only organic electrochromic materials may be used.

If a stack structure consisting essentially of organic materials is used, the structure may have three layers of electrode 1 / active layer AC / electrode layer 2, where the active “layer” (AC) is It has the form of a polymer matrix, gel or liquid. The (AC) layer, in the same medium, optionally contains all of the essential electroactive materials, ie species with particularly anode or cathode coloration and optionally in propylene carbonate type solvents. It includes ionic salts having an electrolyte function that is made to be soluble. In addition, the (AC) layer may also include one or more polymers and additives. The interpenetrated network polymer systems described in application FR2857759 are also constructed on this three-layer model. In addition, cathodic colored species, such as bipyridinium salts (strictly biologienic materials), and anodic colored species (eg phenazines) are dissolved, for example, in a liquid or gel base of the propylene carbonate main component. Simple systems, conventionally referred to as "viologens" which make this possible, are also three-layer systems.

A three-layer system with an electrochemically active central (AC) layer comprises, in the same medium, electroactive materials with positive and negative coloring, with one or more solvents, optionally one or more polymers and optionally When one or more ionic salts are needed, they serve as electrolytes,

Anodic pigmented species are for example 5,10-dihydrophenazine, 1,4-phenylenediamine, benzidine, metallocene ), Organic compounds such as derivatives of phenazine, such as phenothiazine, carbazole,

Cathodic colored species are methyl-viologen tetrafluoroborates or octyl-viologen tetrafluoroborates, or quinones or even polythiophenes. Organic compounds such as derivatives of viologen {bipyridinium}, such as

Solvents are dimethylsulfoxide, N, N-dimethylformamide, propylene carbonate, ethylene carbonate, N-methyl pyrolidinone ), Gamma volumetric acetone (gamma butyrolacetone), ionic liquids, ethylene glycols, ethylene glycols, alcohols, ketones, nitriles,

Polymers include polyethers, polyesters, polyamides, polyimides, polycarbonates, polymethacrylates, polyacetates, polysilanes polysilanes, polysiloxanes, celluloses,

Ion salts are for example lithium perchlorate, salts of trifluoromethanesulfonate {triflate}, salts of trifluoromethanesulfonylimide, ammonium salts Or even ionic liquids,

The (AC) layer has a thickness of 50 μm to 500 μm, preferably 150 μm to 300 μm,

The active species are in the form of an electrochemically active layer comprising at least one of the following compounds: tungsten (W), niobium (Nb), tin (Sn), bismuth (Bi), vanadium (V), nickel Single or mixtures of (Ni), iridium (Ir), antimony (Sb), tantalum (Ta), and optionally including additional metals such as titanium, tantalum or rhenium , In the form of an oxide layer,

The system includes silicon nitride (Si ₃ N ₄ ), molybdenum oxide (MoO ₃ ), tantalum oxide (Ta ₂ O ₅ ), antimony oxide (Sb ₂ O ₅ ), nickel oxide (NiO _x ), tin oxide (SnO ₂₎ ), Zirconium oxide (ZrO ₂ ), aluminum oxide (Al ₂ O ₃ ), silicon dioxide (SiO ₂ ), niobium oxide (Nb ₂ O ₅ ), chromium oxide (Cr ₂ O ₃ ), cobalt oxide (Co ₃ O ₄ ), A layer having an electrolyte function selected from titanium dioxide (TiO ₂ ), optionally zinc oxide (ZnO) alloyed with aluminum, tin zinc oxide (SnZnO _x ), vanadium oxide (V ₂ O ₅ ) At least one of these oxides is optionally hydrated or nitrided.

For all these systems, all of the above-mentioned electrical connection means can be provided (internally and / or externally, protruding or not, having through holes, etc.) and one or more electrodes having a portion protruding on the edge .

FIG. 10 shows a schematic cross section of an active device 1000 having an organic or hybrid electrochromic system which is fundamental in a tenth embodiment of the invention.

This device differs from the previous devices by the features described below.

Electrochromic system 12 'includes an organic or hybrid organic-inorganic active layer. The upper electrode 13 is deposited on the cover 3 and the peripheral means is the glass spacer 44.

The lower electrode 11 is connected to one or these of the metal welds 63 of the substrate via a foil-type strip 110 ′ of U-shape. This foil includes:

To the inner boundary 33 of the cover-by means of conductive bonding or welding-a pressed or even fixed part,

-On one of the boundaries of the edge 31 of the cover-by conductive bonding or welding-a part that is pressed or even fixed,

-Pressed part-optionally by conductive bonding or welding-to the outer boundary 32 of the cover 3.

Similarly, the upper electrode 13 'is connected to one of the metal welds 64' of the cover via a U-shaped foil type strip 130 '.

Measures are taken so that each electrode 11 ', 13 is not in contact with the others of the metal welds 63', 64.

Alternatively, to replace one or more foils, one or both of the electrodes may protrude on one boundary of the edge (of the substrate or of the cover), or one or more conductive enamel strips, for example screen printed and A material, or even a conductive cement, or even other conductive layers that are included, or even deposited by inkjet filled with metal (nano) particles, such as silver or copper, is used.

The devices described above have a number of applications.

The devices 100-1000 can be used for transport vehicles such as rear windows, side windows or vehicle roofs, mirrors for rear-view mirrors or for other land, sea and flight vehicles, in particular windows or cockpits.

Devices 100-1000 can be used for bus stop walls, or for urban furniture such as display cases, jewelry displays, shop windows, shelf elements, aquarium walls, greenhouses.

The devices 100-1000 can be used for interior decoration, furniture facades, sidewalk blocks, in particular glass or wall or floor linings, kitchen cupboards or ceiling slabs for bathrooms.

The devices 100-1000 may be optical elements, such as camera lenses, and may be used as elements located on or near the front of a display screen of a device, such as a computer or television or lighting fixture.

Industrially applicable as related to active devices having variable energy / light transmissive properties comprising an active system between the protective substrate and the protective cover.

Claims (20)

As an active device (100 to 900) having a variable energy / light transmission property, Between the protective substrate 2 and the protective cover 3, which is essentially selected from inorganic electrochromic systems, light valve systems, liquid crystal systems, gasochromic systems, thermochromic systems Active systems (1, 1 ', 12, 12'), -An active device comprising leakproof means for liquid water and / or water vapor, A boundary 50, made from at least one metal principal component 5a, 5b on the periphery of the device, the boundary being via assembly means 61 ′ through 64 ′ forming at least a portion of the vapor leak prevention means. Active device with variable energy / light transmission properties, characterized in that it is assembled at least in part by the edge (21) of the substrate and / or by the edge (31) of the cover. A variable energy / light transmitting property according to claim 1, characterized in that the boundary and the assembly means (61'-64 ') form at least a major part of the leak prevention means for liquid water and water vapor. Active device. Variable energy according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the boundary (50) is at least partially assembled by major outer borders (23, 33) of the substrate and / or of the cover. Active device having light transmitting properties. 4. The means according to claim 1, wherein the assembling means 61 ′ to 64 ′ are: Ethylene vinylacetate, polyisobutylene, optionally covered with a material that has anti-leak properties in liquid water such as polysulfide, polyurethane, or silicone ), A material 610 based primarily on thermofusible polymer (s) selected from at least one of the polymer families of polyamide, At least one metal weld or solder, -Cement type adhesives, such as heat-fused polyurethanes, which have leak-proof properties against liquid water and Active device having variable energy / light transmission properties, characterized in that it is at least partially selected from one. 5. An active device 600 according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the active device 600 has variable energy / light transmitting properties, wherein the boundary and associated assembling means comprise a bulk of material mainly composed of polyisobutylene. forming a single element 50 'comprising membrane 61' consisting of a bulk, the membrane being covered on the outer surface with a film 51 'formed of metal and synthetic material (s). An active device having variable energy / light transmission properties. 5. Active device (100-500, 700-900) with variable energy / light transmissive properties, wherein the boundary is made from metal (50) and at least part of the assembly means. Active device having variable energy / light transmission properties, characterized in that it is conductive (63 to 64) and preferably comprises at least one metal weld (63, 63 ', 64, 64'). 7. An active system according to claim 6, wherein an active system is arranged between the two electrodes 11, 11 ', 13', 13, the boundary being made from metal and serving as at least a first electrical connection to one of the electrodes. Active devices having variable energy / light transmission properties. 8. The following means of electrical connection according to claim 6 or 7, in particular associated with the borders 50, 5a, 5b: At least one electrically conductive wire 93, At least one electrically conductive strip 110 ′, 130 ′, in particular of metal and foil type, An electrically conductive filling material (65), Electrically conductive enamels (110, 130, 130bis), -Electrically conductive cement, -At least one internal electrical connection means, for at least a first electrical connection, selected from at least one of the at least one metal weld. The method of claim 6, wherein at least with respect to the first electrical connection, Protruding on at least one boundary of the substrate or on the edges 21, 31 of the cover, foil type electrically conductive strips 110 ′, 130 ′, electrically conductive enamels 110, 130, 130 bis, electrically conductive Variable energy / light transmission, characterized in that it comprises a thin layer, an electrically conductive cement and / or a means of one protruding portion of the electrodes 11 ', 13' or internal connection means selected from these means. Active device with properties. The method of claim 6, wherein one of the electrodes comprises two protruding portions, on two borders of the substrate or on the edge of the cover, optionally on the borders facing each other, Wherein the protruding portions are electrically insulated from the other protruding portions and serve as electrical connections of the other electrode. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the boundary 50 is made at least from two metal parts 5a, 5b, which act as distinct electrical connections, which parts comprise the following connecting means ( 610): Optional ethylene vinylacetate, polyisobutylene, polyamide a material based primarily on thermofusible polymer (s) selected from at least one of the polymer families of polyamide, Adhesive with leak-proof properties for cement and water vapor, such as thermally fused polyurethanes And is electrically isolated and connected by at least one of the devices. The active device (400, 800) with variable energy / light transmitting properties, wherein the boundary (50) is made of a single metal part (5a). 2 the electrical connection is preferably provided by a through hole 311 arranged in the dielectrically selected cover 3, the hole being filled with metal solder and / or another conductive material 630 ′, 65, Active device with variable energy / light transmission properties. 13. The active device (500, 700) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the electrical connections protrudes out of the device between the boundary and the substrate or cover. Variable electrical energy / light transmission, characterized in that it is preferably an electrically conductive layer (66, 66 ') or a foil type electrically conductive strip (121, 131). Active device with properties. The covering means according to claim 1, wherein the cover is by means called peripheral means surrounding the layer or on the active system 41, 42, 43, 43 ′, 44. An active device having variable energy / light transmission properties, characterized in that it is spaced or sealed to the substrate by means, or the substrate and the cover are kept distance by the boundary. The substrate and cover according to any one of the preceding claims, particularly preferably assembled by a laminated spacer 43 which is preferably a cover and a sheet of heat fusion material having substantially the same size as the cover and the substrate, Optionally with a network of electrically conductive wires 93 encrusted on the inner surface of the laminated spacer 43 facing the electrode, and / or an electrically conductive layer or electrically conductive strips on the inner surface. Active devices having variable energy / light transmission properties. 16. The following electrical connection means according to claim 15, wherein the active device 200-400 having a variable energy / light transmitting property is connected with one or the other of the electrodes 11-13 ': Foil-type, in particular U-shaped, electrically conductive strips 110 ', 130' fixed to at least one boundary of the laminated spacer and in contact with the inner wall of the metal boundary, A foil type, in particular U, of which the first end is in contact with the electrode and the second end is in contact with a through hole filled with a metallic material of a dielectric cover, between which ends pass through the cut spacer; Of the electrically conductive strips 110 ', 130' An active device having variable energy / light transmission properties, characterized in that it comprises one. 17. The active device 100 to 900 having variable energy / light transmissive properties, wherein the essentially inorganic electrochemical system selected is an electrochromic system. Active devices having variable energy / light transmission properties. 18. The active device 100-900 having variable energy / light transmitting properties, wherein the substrate and / or cover 3 is a sheet of plate glass. Textures that are convex and / or tempered, optionally associated with the polymer sheet, and wherein the major outer borders of the cover and the associated borders of the surface 5 match. Active device having variable energy / light transmission properties, characterized in that it has matching texturizings. 19. The active device (100-900) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the boundary preferably has a polysulfide (620) or polyimide (polyimide). Active device having variable energy / light transmission properties, characterized in that it is protected against corrosion by corrosion. 20. The active device (100-900) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the active device (100-900) has variable energy / light transmission properties, optionally in a building constructed of double glazing, and in particular in a building facade, window or Used for French windows and / or for transport vehicles, such as rear windows, side windows or parts of vehicle roofs, rearview mirrors, windshields or windshields, or for land, sea or flight vehicles, especially windows or cockpits And / or urban furniture such as bus shelters, display cases, jewelry displays, shop windows, shelf elements, aquarium walls, greenhouses, mirrors, furniture facades, paving blocks Used for furniture or for interior decoration, for wall or floor or ceiling linings, optionally on the front of the lighting fixture, or especially turned off to adjust the light intensity In position, it is placed facing an optical element, such as a masked element or a camera lens, or on the front or display screen of a display screen of a device such as a computer or television or lighting fixture or An active device with variable energy / light transmission properties, characterized in that it is used as an element to be placed near its front face.

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